PUBLIC Attorney's Office (PAO) in Davao Region chief said on Monday their office lacks seven lawyers to meet the ideal number of 45.
There are only 38 PAO lawyers for the entire region, said lawyer Francis Calatrava, PAO regional director.
But he said the case now is already better than when he assumed office in October 2008, when there were only 25 lawyers.
Of the total 38 lawyers, 14 are assigned in Davao City, but there are 18 courts in the city.
He said the shortage causes the delay in the resolution of cases.
"Mahirap na ito masyado sa part ng lawyers, not to mention that these lawyers also cater to walk-in-consultations and any other administrative works," Calatrava said.
He said their office continuously hires lawyers to fill the vacancies and to meet the demands in rendering legal assistance to the general public.
As of July 26, PAO has appointed new lawyers: Randolf Pensoy of Digos City District Office; Rubilyn Doquilla of Tagum City District Office; Tzadhi Day and Rod Patrick Tabunda of Igacos District Office; and Krystine Geronimo of Panabo District Office.
Another six new public lawyers, Calatrava said, will be appointed in September and assigned to different provincial districts -- Baganga in Davao Oriental, Malita in Davao del Sur, Bansalan in Davao del Sur, Nabunturan in Compostela Valley, and Davao City. (JOP)